Space Force reinforces combat culture, talent development

Published Dec. 12, 2025
By Staff Sgt. Emmeline James
Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

ORLANDO, Fla. (AFNS) -- Guardians and senior leaders gathered for a full day of connection prior to the Space Force Association’s Spacepower Conference 2025, where Space Force officials emphasized warfighting culture, readiness and professional development as the service continues to refine its identity and expectations.

Deirdra Eberhardt, Space Systems Command acting executive director, answers a question during a Guardian Development Day panel at the Space Force Association’s Spacepower Conference in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 10, 2025. The dialogue reflected the Space Force’s commitment to transparency, collaboration and continuous improvement. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Emmeline James)

The event, held as part of Guardian Development Day, brought together operational experts, junior Guardians and headquarters leadership for candid discussions on how the force is evolving to meet current and future demands. The program included panels and opportunities for Guardians to gather in small group discussions. The day ended in a town hall with Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman and Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force John Bentivegna.

Bentivegna set the tone for the day, emphasizing the critical need for open communication and a unified vision. "We are building the future of spacepower, right here, right now,"

Bentivegna declared. "This conference is our opportunity – every Guardian, civilian and contractor – to shape that future through honest dialogue and a commitment to excellence."
Panelists on the Combat Culture Panel described warfighting culture as a shared responsibility across every unit and specialty.

Col. Bryan Bell, Delta 15 commander and National Space Defense Center director, said Guardians should see themselves as part of a single mission. “Whether you’re in a combat squadron or building the systems those squadrons employ, we’re all part of the same combat culture,” Bell said. “Our focus has to remain on mission effectiveness and on the people we serve – our nation, our allies and our partners.”

U.S. Space Force Col. Brian Bell, Space Delta 15 commander, speaks during a Guardian Development Day panel at the Space Force Association’s Spacepower Conference in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 10, 2025. Attendees gathered to discuss policies, training programs and force management processes. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Emmeline James) — Col. Brian Bell, Space Delta 15 commander, speaks during a Guardian Development Day panel at the Space Force Association’s Spacepower Conference in Orlando, Fla., Dec. 10, 2025. Attendees gathered to discuss policies, training programs and force management processes. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Emmeline James)

Civilian panelist Deidra Eberhardt, Space Systems Command acting executive director, highlighted the everyday impact of space operations. “There isn’t a day in anyone’s life without space,” she said. “We enable every joint mission and support millions of people who rely on space-based services. That purpose is what drives me to do this work.”

Senior Master Sgt. Matthew Massoth, 4th Electromagnetic Warfare Squadron senior enlisted leader, encouraged Guardians to take responsibility for shaping their unit culture. “Combat culture starts with mindset,” he said. “Every conversation should tie back to combat effects and how you support them. Don’t wait for senior leaders to define it – go back to your unit and build that culture every day.”

Bentivegna underscored the foundational importance of developing a warfighting mindset from the earliest stages of a Guardian's career. "Our success depends on instilling a warfighting ethos from day one. Every training pipeline – from BMT to advanced courses – must forge Guardians who understand the stakes, embrace the challenge and are ready to defend our nation's interests in space," he stated.

During the town hall, Guardians asked questions about talent management, PME alignment and early-career development. Saltzman said the Space Force continues to refine its development pathways to support a technically skilled and adaptable force. “We’ve designed a force ready to win and developed Guardians ready to outthink and outperform,” he said. “But doctrine and architecture don’t matter without the professionals who build, operate and employ our capabilities.”

Saltzman noted updates to officer and enlisted development programs, including the Officer Training Course and new leadership initiatives tailored to Space Force missions. “We’re building multi-disciplinary critical thinkers—Guardians who can collaborate broadly, lead effectively and be ready on day one,” he said.

Bentivegna addressed the importance of early career experiences, providing a call to action.

"The questions you're asking demonstrate your commitment to this mission," Bentivegna affirmed. "Your early years are not just about learning technical skills; they are about internalizing the Guardian Ethos, understanding our strategic environment and building the foundation for a lifetime of service. Own your development, seek out mentorship and never stop learning."

Organizers said insights from the day’s discussions will help inform future training, leadership development and talent initiatives as the Space Force continues to grow and refine its warfighting role.